The Devi's Promise: The Glory of This Story

In the twelfth adhyay, the Devi herself tells the glory of this story. This is called the phalashruti. The Devi says, 'Whoever prays to me with these hymns with a focused mind, I will remove their troubles. Whoever hears this story of the end of Madhu-Kaitabh, Mahishasur and Shumbh-Nishumbh will have my grace.'

According to the Devi, hearing this Mahatmya with a focused mind on Ashtami, Chaturdashi and Navami is especially meaningful. Tradition says that hearing it with devotion during the great yearly worship of autumn, Sharad Navratri, pleases the Devi. That is why the Saptashati is recited in homes and temples during Navratri.

The Devi goes on to say that she never leaves a place where this story is regularly read. Devotees believe that its recitation drives away fear, softens the effect of bad dreams and fills the mind with courage. These are matters of devotees' faith and tradition.

Having said this, the Devi vanished as the gods watched. Freed from fear, the gods returned to their places and took up their duties again. The sage Medha said, 'O king, that same Devi appears again and again to protect the world. She creates the world, and when pleased, she grants wisdom and grace.'